City of Marshfield Reminds Residents to Stay Off Storm Water Retention Ponds this Winter

Monday, January 22nd, 2024 -- 2:00 PM

With the recent cold snap sweeping through the upper Midwest, the City of Marshfield reminds everyone to remain off storm water retention ponds this winter.

Even though these ponds may appear frozen during the winter, continual water movement underneath the ice and the rise and fall of outdoor temperatures cause unstable ice surfaces to be hazardous.

Retention ponds are stormwater facilities designed to help prevent flooding due to heavy rains. These ponds are designed with an inlet and outlet, meaning water constantly flows underneath the ice surface, leading to unpredictable and dangerous ice conditions throughout the winter.

Also, winter runoff is often mixed with street salts. Once the runoff enters the pond, the salts can cause the ice to melt and thin. We've considered fencing around the perimeter of our stormwater ponds.

However, it is not economically feasible and could hamper access for emergency personnel if an accident or emergency were to occur. Today, more than 100 public and privately owned wet/dry stormwater ponds are located within the city’s corporate limits.

The City urges everyone to take extra precautions, ensuring that children, pets, and adults remain safe by staying away from these ponds. If you see someone falling through the ice, do not go on the ice to attempt a rescue. Call 911 immediately for help.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.